Thomas set to break record

Gareth Thomas will enter the history books as Welsh rugby's most-capped player with 93 appearances when he leads his side out against Australia at Telstra Stadium in Sydney on Saturday.

Thomas will overtake the 92-cap record he has held jointly with Bristol veteran Gareth Llewellyn since leading Wales to victory over England at Millennium Stadium during the RBS 6 Nations.

The feat caps a remarkable comeback for the player known as 'Alfie'. He suffered a ruptured neck artery during the 2006 Six Nations following a heated appearance on television as the debate over 2005 Grand Slam coach Mike Ruddock's controversial departure came to the boil.

But Thomas, 32, overcame the health threat to his career and was back in action in time to appear for his country in the James Hook-inspired 29-29 comeback draw against Australia in Cardiff and also played in the win over Canada in that November series.

"It's a fantastic achievement, Gareth's been a great example for all players and is the epitome of a quality professional," said head coach Gareth Jenkins.

"He is a significant selection, his experience and enthusiasm is on display for everyone to see in training and he has a renewed sharpness and edge to his game that can only benefit this Wales team.

"You wouldn't bet against him breaking through the 100-cap barrier with two games on this tour, three summer matches and then the Rugby World Cup just around the corner.

"He was inspirational after missing the first four matches of the Six Nations this year and he leads a team bubbling with international experience into a match we are looking to win."

Versatile Thomas will lead the side from the right wing while fellow veteran and former skipper Colin Charvis also extends his cap record for a Wales back-row forward, coming straight into the side after arriving with the squad on Monday to make his 85th appearance.

Charvis packs down alongside surprise number eight selection Jonathan Thomas, the Ospreys' back-five forward who can operate in any of the scrum's back-five positions.

Thomas' presence means no starting slot for another ex-Wales captain, Michael Owen, who is likely to get his chance from the bench along with another returnee, Gavin Henson.

Henson will have to wait for either of centres Sonny Parker or Jamie Robinson to make way to make his first competitive appearance since January.